Overview & Reviews

Once upon a time, somebody looked at a small, off-roading vehicle like the Nissan Pathfinder and said to himself: "You know, I think I could use that to replace the family station wagon. It's a lot cooler looking than dad's Country Squire. And I wouldn't be caught dead in a minivan." Since then, the Pathfinder and other SUVs have become increasingly larger and luxurious to meet the demand of millions of like-minded buyers.

You can see this evolution in the Pathfinder's timeline of four generations. The carlike current model excels as a three-row family hauler, and it's even available as a hybrid. Earlier Pathfinders -- and the third generation in particular -- were more rugged and capable for towing, but not as comfortable or fuel efficient.

Current Nissan Pathfinder
The Nissan Pathfinder is a three-row crossover SUV that's offered in S, SV, SL and Platinum trim levels. The base S trim is indeed pretty basic for this segment, so we think most people will be better served by the SV, which includes items like a power driver seat, Bluetooth, a rearview camera and an iPod interface. The two upper trims can be had with nearly all of the luxuries found on the mechanically related Infiniti JX35. Note that the Hybrid is not offered in S trim.

Powering the standard Pathfinder is a 3.5-liter V6 engine that sends 260 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels through a CVT (continuously variable transmission). The Pathfinder Hybrid pairs a supercharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a 15-kilowatt electric motor, yielding a combined 250 hp and 243 lb-ft. All-wheel drive is optional with either powertrain. Hybrid fuel economy is estimated to exceed 25 mpg in mixed driving, while the regular Pathfinder stays in the low 20s.

In daily driving, the Pathfinder's ride is laudably comfortable and composed. If you're looking for agile handling, this Nissan may disappoint, but otherwise it's about as pleasant to drive as a big crossover can be. Performance is smooth and more than adequate with the V6, and the Hybrid promises meaningful efficiency gains without giving up too much acceleration.

Inside, the Pathfinder's cabin is put together well and boasts quality materials. Despite the abundance of features (especially in higher trims), the various controls are easy to reach and intuitive. The second-row seat slides and reclines to optimize comfort for passengers or cargo space behind as needs dictate. Access to the third row is eased by the second row's tilt and slide feature, which can be used even when a child seat is in place. The third row offers enough headroom for 6-foot passengers, but clearance gets a little tight beyond that, and legroom is limited.

If maximum space is a priority, some larger crossover SUVs such as the Chevrolet Traverse might be a better choice. But overall we're fond of the Pathfinder and think it fits very well with the typical family's needs and desires.

Used Nissan Pathfinder Models
The current, fourth-generation Nissan Pathfinder was completely redesigned for 2013 and represents a dramatic shift from its predecessor. The Pathfinder is now a car-based crossover SUV, boasting a more space-efficient cabin, better fuel economy, front- or all-wheel drive, V6 or hybrid power and a CVT. As a result, it is better to drive, cheaper to fill up and generally nicer to live with.

The most notable change for the current Pathfinder has been the introduction of the Hybrid model for 2014.

The previous, third-generation Nissan Pathfinder was produced from 2005-'12. Unlike its unibody predecessor and successor, this Pathfinder featured truck-based body-on-frame construction that lent it a commendably strong 7,000-pound towing capacity when properly equipped. However, it also made it heavier, less space-efficient inside and ponderous to drive.

Originally, the standard engine was a 4.0-liter V6 that produced 266 hp and 288 lb-ft of torque. For 2008, a 5.6-liter V8 became an option, making 310 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque that was more up to the task of lugging this heavy Pathfinder around. Both engines came standard with a five-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, while a four-wheel-drive system was an option. As expected, fuel economy was not a strong suit for either engine.

The interior was roomy enough for four adults in the first two rows, but only little kids could fit in the third row. On the upside, most of Nissan's comfort and convenience features were offered, and its maximum cargo capacity of 79 cubic feet should still be enough for most folks.

Pathfinder buyers of this generation typically had a choice of four trim levels: base S, midgrade SV, the more luxurious Silver and the upscale LE. For those interested in using a Pathfinder for some off-roading, Nissan offered an SE Off Road 4x4 trim from 2005-'10 that featured such all-terrain items as special tires, Bilstein shocks, skid plates, hill descent control and hill start assist.

If you're looking at this generation Pathfinder, know that its strengths relate mostly to its power and towing capacity. For more typical family use, competing crossovers or SUVs of similar vintage will likely be better choices, including the Honda Pilot, Mazda CX-9 or Toyota Highlander or 4Runner.

The second-generation (1996-2004) Pathfinder debuted right when the SUV craze hit a fever pitch. A switch to carlike unibody construction (compared to the original truck-based model) afforded it significant gains in size, interior space and on-road agility, while shedding 200 pounds. The softer Pathfinder's unremarkable styling and wimpy engine (its V6 made just 166 hp) rendered it merely average within its crowded segment, though. A small backseat also made it less suitable for hauling children than some competitors.

Nissan followed a cosmetic update in 2000 with a much-needed engine upgrade in the form of its powerful VQ-series 3.5-liter V6. In the Pathfinder, it was good for an impressive 240 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. The improvements added enough flavor to earn the Nissan Pathfinder two consecutive Edmunds.com Most Wanted awards, in 2001 and 2002.

Launched in 1986 for the 1987 model year, the original Nissan Pathfinder has roots that run deeper than most midsize SUVs. Initially, the Pathfinder was intended to appeal to the same youthful, active, mostly male buyers that Toyota appealed to with its 4Runner. Based on Nissan's compact pickup platform, the original Pathfinder looked macho and performed well off road, even though it was not terribly well equipped or spacious by today's standards. It wasn't very powerful either, even with the optional 3.0-liter V6. It was offered initially only in a two-door body style, later adding a four-door variant that ultimately became its only configuration in subsequent generations. Pathfinders were available with four- and six-cylinder engines, as well as rear- and four-wheel drive.

User Reviews:

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  2005 Nissan Pathfinder Rocks! - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Roger - November 29 - 7:40 pm

  EDGY looks, FUN to drive, POWERFUL V6. Love the looks and 17 inch wheels. The ride is very comfortable. The LE has most of the bells and whistles I wanted for a competitive price. Didnt need the 4X4 cuz I stay on paved roads and dont like to waste $ on gas. I do appreciate the option of using unleaded 87 octane. The only complaints I have are: No cargo cover, no power side view mirrors (the Maxima has power mirrors...what gives?), and no indicator on your instrument panel when your headlights are on. Outside of these small issues this SUV gives you the most bang for the buck! I could easily have bought the RX330 or MDX, but know I made the right choice with the 2005 Pathfinder.

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  Reliable SUV - 1999 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Derek - November 28 - 6:10 pm

  This has been a reliable SUV for us. Poor gas mileage has made us trade in our other car to get one with higher gas mileage. The Pathfinder drives more like a truck due to the noise of the motor and low HP. The only two problems we have had are as follows: O2 sensor went out, and the gas tank door broke. Other than that it has been a reliable car. The leather isnt that nice and the display is kind of dated, but what do you expect from a 1999. We dont like the new Pathfinders, so we will probably trade in for a different SUV.

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  Better mileage and it would be perfect - 2004 Nissan Pathfinder
  By boomingemu - November 27 - 6:06 am

  I bought it used with 15,000 miles and have been very pleased with it other than the gas mileage. The CD changer refuses to eject my discs (still need to have that fixed). Another review mentioned an annoying rattle from the defrost vents on the dash, and I have that as well. I also had a clogged a/c drain tube which caused a major water leak on the passenger floor board. Nissan will fix this design problem on 2005+ models, but I had to pay a little to have them clear the drain. Everything else mechanical has been great so far at 55,000 miles. The jack with the vehicle is terrible. I found it unstable and dangerous to use when changing a tire on the side of the highway.

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  Quality needs improv - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By New Buyer - November 24 - 3:10 pm

  I just bought Pathfinder 11/8/05 and love it. but last night (11/30/05) the right back tire was flat in the local street there is a very clean street and I couldnt find any cut from the flat tire. I called the dealer and was informed "no warranty for the tire" I am so mad this is only 3 weeks and 480 mile in this brand new car. How is this quality?

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  Unrefined - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Shayne - November 12 - 3:23 am

  Ive put about 25,000 miles on this truck in the past 12 + months. Ive used it for towing up to 4,000 lbs, general highway and city driving. The power is great, major mechanical is strong, but it lacks a lot in overall refinement. The seats are below average in comfort, several trips to the dealer for electrical issues, traction control issues, body trim peeling off.

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  THE BEST SUV IN THE PLANET - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By MATT - November 12 - 2:00 am

  I HAVE NO HAD ANY PLOBLEMS WITH MY PATHFINDER, IT IS ALOT BETTER THAN THE JEEP LIBERTY. THE JEEP LIBERTY IS THE WERST. MY FRIND AS IS AND SHE HAD PLOBLEMS THE NEXT DAY. ANYWAYS THE PATHFINDER IS THE BST SUV IN THE WORLD.

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  Great Stereo, great Engine - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By TBerndt - November 12 - 2:00 am

  Very fun recreational vehicle. Six disc stereo rocks, better than a lot of folks have at home. Roof rack accepts Yakima conversions that make boat carrying, etc. quite easy. Has a tendency to break loose on wet roads, hard turns. Think its the potent engine-you just have to stay off of it a little on slick roads.

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  Dont Buy 2005-2006 Pathfinders - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By runnermcm - November 12 - 2:00 am

  I am having the same problems that others have noted here and on the Edmunds discussion board about the radiator and the transmission. The tranny is failing, but Nissan of Omaha says they cant find anything wrong despite riding with me and it slipping (acts as if it is in neutral) - goes to 6 RPM and you say at 40 mph for a while - just one example. Woodhouse Nissan confirmed my problem but Nissan of Omaha has to be the one to fix it and so far they wont. The radiator was replaced after it flooded the tranny and they flushed it, but that didnt solve it. There are at least 3 class action lawsuits. Im not letting it end here. I will keep all boards I post on updated with progress/advice.

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  Buyer beware! - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By kfop - November 12 - 2:00 am

  Purchased used 05 Pathfinder in January of this year. Within a month of owning the vehicle, began having the transmission problems that everyone talks about on here (radiator fluid mixing w/ transm. fluid) completely destroying the transmission and radiator. Also began having the fuel sensor problem that everyone talks about. This all occurred between 65K - 70K miles. Dont take just my word for it. Read all of the bad reviews online for this vehicle for the tranny and fuel sensor problem. New tranny costs $5,000. To top things off, the gas mileage is awful on this vehicle (16 mpg best I ever got) I highly suggest you stay away from this vehicle.

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  Great SUV - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
  By joe - November 8 - 12:30 am

  love this SUV. Great power and very reliable. No problems so far with 50k miles. It has so much power and the options are amazing. I drove some other SUVs and no comparison. The patty has more space, more power, more options.The v8 can tow anything and great for on and off road.